If you’ve ever found yourself stuck without credit at the worst possible moment, learning how to borrow airtime on MTN can save you instantly. MTN Nigeria offers simple emergency credit services that allow prepaid users to get airtime or data even when their balance is empty.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything about MTN’s XtraTime and XtraByte services, how they work, who qualifies, how to borrow airtime or data using *303#, repayment details, common issues, and tips to stay eligible. Whether it’s a quick call or an urgent data need, MTN’s borrowing options ensure you stay connected when it matters most.
What are MTN XtraTime and XtraByte?
If you use MTN in Nigeria, you can borrow airtime or data on credit when you run out. The borrowing services are called MTN XtraTime (for airtime/credit) and MTN XtraByte (for data bundles).
Also read: MTN Unlimited Data Plan in 2025: How to Activate It
With these, you get instant airtime or data, then pay back (plus a small fee) when you next recharge.
Who Can Borrow Airtime or Data on MTN
Not every MTN user qualifies. To use XtraTime or XtraByte you must:
- Be on MTN’s prepaid plan.
- Have your SIM registered and active for at least 3 months.
- Recharge regularly. You must have spent at least N200 monthly for 3 months.
- Have paid off any previous borrowed balance or loan.
If you meet these criteria, the options to borrow will appear when you dial the correct code.
How to Borrow Airtime on MTN (Borrow airtime on MTN)
Borrowing airtime via XtraTime is straightforward.
- Dial
*303#. - The code will take you directly to the XtraTime menu.
- Choose the amount you want to borrow (for example, ₦50, ₦100, ₦200, ₦500, depending on your eligibility).
- Confirm the transaction. You’ll receive a message confirming the borrowed amount.
- MTN will deduct a service fee, e.g., if you borrow ₦100, you may receive around ₦85 after the 15% fee.
Also read: How to Cancel Caller Tune on MTN in 2025
Once confirmed, the airtime is credited immediately to your line, and you can use it for calls, SMS, or data.
How to Borrow Data on MTN (Borrow data on MTN)
If you run out of data, XtraByte lets you borrow a data bundle that you will pay for on your next recharge.
Here’s how to borrow data:
- Dial
*303#. - Select XtraByte (Borrow Data) from the menu.
- A list of data bundles eligible for borrowing will appear; pick one.
- Confirm the request. MTN will credit your account with the data bundle, and send you a confirmation message.
- The cost of the data bundle plus a service fee will be deducted automatically from your next recharge.
Once credited, the data works immediately, just like any regular data plan.
Repayment and Checking Borrowed Balance
- The borrowed airtime or data (plus service fee) is automatically deducted from your next recharge; you don’t need to repay manually.
- To check if you still owe, or see how much you borrowed: Dial
*303#and choose “Account.” On the next page, select “Check Balance.”
Also read: How to Stop Auto Renewal on MTN 2025
This helps you avoid borrowing again while still owing.
Important Notes and Common Issues
- Borrowing services are only for prepaid customers; postpaid lines usually don’t qualify.
- If your SIM is new or inactive, or you haven’t recharged regularly, you may see a message that you’re not eligible.
- If you have reached your credit limit, you must clear any previous loan before borrowing again.
- The service fee for borrowing (around 15%) means you receive less than you borrowed.
- Borrow responsibly.
Also read: Newest USSD Codes for Network Providers in Nigeria
Why These Services Matter
Borrowing airtime or data on MTN, whether just a small amount of airtime or a data bundle, can save you in urgent situations (like when you’re out of airtime or near zero data).
The process is quick (just a USSD dial), works nationwide, and does not require internet.
Because repayment happens automatically on recharge, you don’t need to remember extra steps.
For many prepaid users, XtraTime and XtraByte offer a convenient emergency credit option when you run out at inconvenient times.
Also read: Full List of Airtel USSD Codes | Transfer, OTP, Airtime & More
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Who can borrow airtime or data on MTN?
A: Only prepaid customers are eligible. Your number must be registered, your SIM active for at least 3 months, and you must have recharged at least 200 Naira airtime monthly for the 3 months.
Q: How do I check if I’m eligible for borrowing?
A: Dial *303#, go to “Account,” then select “Check eligibility”. Alternatively, you can send an SMS with the keyword “STATUS” to 303.
Q: What are the minimum and available borrowing amounts for airtime (XtraTime)?
A: Airtime borrowing bands start from ₦25 and go up to ₦10,000, depending on eligibility and previous spending history.
Q: Will borrowing airtime or data cost extra?
A: Yes. Borrowed airtime or data incurs a 15% service fee, which is deducted before the airtime/data is credited.
Q: When do I repay the borrowed airtime or data?
A: Repayment happens automatically on your next recharge. The borrowed amount (plus service fee) is deducted from the recharge amount before any remaining balance is credited.
Q: Can I borrow again if I still owe from a previous loan?
A: Yes, if you have not reached your credit limit.
Q: How can I check how much I owe (borrowed airtime or data)?
A: Dial *303#, go to “Account,” then select “Check Balance.” You can also send “Balance ” to 303 via SMS.
Q: Can I borrow multiple times (airtime and/or data)?
A: Yes, as long as you remain within your credit limit.
Conclusion
If you’re an MTN prepaid user and meet the eligibility criteria, borrowing airtime or data on MTN is simple and fast. Just dial *303#, choose XtraTime or XtraByte, pick amount or bundle, and confirm.
Because repayment is automatic at your next recharge, borrowed airtime or data acts like short-term credit, useful in emergencies.
However, use it responsibly: repay promptly, avoid repeated borrowing without recharge, and check your outstanding balance before borrowing again.
By following these steps, you’ll know exactly how to borrow airtime on MTN or borrow data on MTN, and ultimately stay connected when you need it most.
Stay connected to this blog for more useful day-to-day updates. Follow us on X (formerly Twitter) @Logic_sss for more.
Recommendations
- Full List of Glo USSD Code for Transfer, Airtime, OTP & More
- Wema Bank USSD Code for Transfer, Airtime and Mobile Banking | Full Guide
- How to Borrow Money from Opay in Nigeria | Full Guide
- Opay USSD Code for Transfer, Airtime & Mobile Banking | Full Guide
- 5 Top Security Tips for Choosing the Right Airline in Nigeria 2025
